Thomas Clarkson Academy has its own firefighters on board since Year 8 students Daniel Sexton, Dylan Ashman and Raven Cheek completed a course at Wisbech Fire Station.

They took part in an arson reduction scheme called Squad 14 for 12 weeks and took part in a passing out parade at the fire station to mark their completion of the course.

Wisbech Watch Commander Phil Pilbeam, who led the programme for the fire service, said: "Participants of Squad 14 have spent two hours each week with firefighters from Wisbech taking part in cadet-style activities. Donned in full fire kit, they learned basic drill techniques at the sessions, along with developing team building and listening skills, and becoming self-disciplined. Most importantly, through the activities they gained knowledge about how fires develop, the consequences of arson and the impact on the community.

"They learned about our in-water rescue activities and practised a basic exercise at a local pool, which was of particular significance owing to the large number of waterways and dykes in the Fens. Linked in with this was raising their awareness of road traffic collisions and dangers on the road."

Squad 14 participants have passed out having gained an Award Scheme Development and Accreditation Network (ASDAN) qualification, first aid certificate and basic water rescue skills.

Daniel said: “We went to the Hudson leisure centre to learn how to save someone in a flood. We also learnt how to attach hoses and how to put out a fire safely.”

Dylan said: “We learnt what to do before you enter a fire and all the specialist equipment you need. I would definitely recommend it.”

Picture credit: Fenland Citizen